Platonic relationships often get a bit of a stereotype in the media. You know, they’re usually shown as situations where one person wants something more, but it doesn’t turn romantic, so they end up in the “friend zone.”

But here’s the deal: the absence of romantic love is what defines a platonic relationship, and these connections can actually be some of the most meaningful ones you build in your life.

Not every deep and meaningful relationship we come across has to be romantic. Love can come in different shapes, and one of those forms is platonic love.

Platonic love doesn’t always get the spotlight when we talk about our most significant connections, but these non-romantic relationships can be some of the most profound ones we experience.

What is platonic love?

Platonic love is a unique kind of love that transcends romance and physical attraction, but it’s still deep, close, and meaningful. It’s more than just regular friendship; it’s all about having a strong, heartfelt connection, being really close, and caring deeply for someone.

The word “platonic” comes from the ancient Greek philosopher Plato. He had these ideas about love, saying the highest kind of love is about connecting on a deep level, not just physically, and valuing wisdom and the soul. So, platonic love means having a super strong, emotional bond that’s not about romance or anything physical.

These days, we use the term “platonic” to describe any relationship that doesn’t involve romance or sex. It can be relationships between parents and kids, teachers and students, coworkers, and among good friends.

What are the signs of platonic love?

Some of the common signs of platonic love are:

• You genuinely care about this person’s happiness and well-being.
• You’d go out of your way to do something nice for them or brighten their day.
• Spending time with them is something you enjoy.
• You feel an intense emotional closeness to them.
• You can be your silly or serious self with them.
• You cherish both sides of the relationship.
• It’s like you know them inside out, not just on the surface.
• You accept them completely, with all their quirks and imperfections.
• You have warm and affectionate feelings for them.
• You want to nurture your connection, but you’re not looking to turn it into a romantic relationship. There’s no desire for anything sexual between you two.
• You see this person as a long-term part of your life, and you’re committed to keeping the relationship strong.
• You love the relationship just the way it is, with no need to add sex or romance to the mix.

The takeaway

Platonic love is when you feel super close to someone, but it’s not about all the lovey-dovey stuff. It’s the kind of connection that brings joy, friendship, support, and excitement to our lives. These non-romantic relationships can be just as important and meaningful as our romantic ones.

Sources:

Gillette, H. (April 12, 2022). This is Platonic Love. PsychCentral. https://psychcentral.com/relationships/platonic-relationship 

Gonsalves, K. (April 26, 2023). What Is Platonic Love? 16 Signs & How It Relates To Friendship. MBGRelationships.

https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/platonic-love